Eastern Equatoria Governor Apologizes for Security Force Assault, Calls for Civilian Rights Respect
In a significant move toward accountability, Eastern Equatoria State Governor Louis Lobong Lojore has issued a public apology to a man reportedly beaten by security personnel in Magwi County. The governor’s apology, delivered during a peace and security rally, marks a pivotal moment in addressing growing concerns over the treatment of civilians by security forces across the region.
A Public Apology and Call for Change
Speaking at a rally in Magwi on Friday, Governor Lobong did not mince words. “On behalf of the state government of Eastern Equatoria, which includes all the organized forces here, I would like to apologize to this gentleman and to you, the people of Magwi,” he stated, addressing the community directly. “I ask for your forgiveness for what has happened.”
The governor described the incident as a misunderstanding and called for calm and reconciliation. His apology was accepted by the young man, identified as Geoffery, in what the governor described as “a new beginning” for improved relations between the community and security forces.
Defending Civilian Rights to Voice Concerns
Governor Lobong strongly defended citizens’ rights to express grievances, framing the issue as fundamentally social rather than security-related. “I heard he was complaining about harassment at the checkpoint. It is his right—it is the right of the citizen to raise anything they think is good,” Lobong emphasized. “It is not a security issue, it is a social issue. It was misinterpreted to be a security issue, but it is not.”
The governor’s remarks came amid increasing reports of youth being beaten by security personnel across the region, highlighting tensions that have been building between civilians and those tasked with their protection.
Clear Directives on Security Force Conduct
Governor Lobong used the platform to issue clear directives to security forces, reminding them of their core responsibilities and the importance of professionalism and respect for human rights. He condemned arbitrary arrests, roadblocks, and recent reports of youth being beaten by security personnel.
In a firm statement delineating responsibilities, Lobong declared: “Criminal suspects should be handled by the police. Soldiers have no role in arrests.” He added unequivocally, “Civilians must never face torture or mistreatment.”
The governor directed local commanders to ensure full compliance with the law and to work toward restoring public trust, emphasizing that security forces must operate within legal boundaries while maintaining order.
Call for Unity and Reconstruction
Looking toward the future, Governor Lobong called for a new chapter in Magwi County. “After Geoffery accepted my apology on behalf of the government and forgave us, now we need to open a new page in Magwi County,” he said. “We have to work together with our children, our brothers in uniform, and create a conducive environment.”
He emphasized the shared identity and common goals of all citizens: “We are one people, our aim is one. If we do that, we live peacefully without fear. We give people freedom to talk—but of course, talk within the law.”
Broader Peacebuilding Efforts
The peace and security rally was part of ongoing efforts by the state government to rebuild trust between civilians and security agencies. Governor Lobong also commended the people of Magwi for their contributions to agriculture, education, and peacebuilding, describing the county as a key player in the state’s development.
In a gesture toward broader reconciliation, Lobong called on former SPLM-IO combatants to return home and welcomed refugees back into their communities, urging everyone to focus on rebuilding and unity.
The governor’s public apology represents a significant step in addressing the delicate balance between security and civilian rights in Eastern Equatoria State, setting a precedent for accountability and improved community-security relations throughout the region.
Source: Original Report